Phil Steele, the football-nerd that he is, has created a new chart detailing how many defensive tackles every FBS team is returning this year. In other words, how players who were making tackles in 2008 are back to do it again in 2009.

A quick look at the numbers reveals a few things:

1.) Stanford returns the most in the conference, 77.8%.

2.) Oregon State returns the least at 43.6%. That also ranks 115 out of 120 FBS teams.

3.) USC only returns 46.0% of its’ tackles. That could mean a loss or two for USC this season.

We love this stat because it really gives you a clearer picture of what experience brings you. Saying a team returns 7 starters on defense doesn’t mean much, but when you can break it down and see how many contributors are coming back, then accurate predictions can be made.

After the jump, a complete listing of Pac-10 teams with their ranking out of 120 FBS teams.